Faubourg Marigny Salon at the home of Dr. Gene Cizek

Join us for a Salon on Wednesday, February 19 from 5:30 PM- 7:30 PM at "Sun Oak," the home of Dr. Gene Cizek. Wine & Cheese will be served.
Sun Oak, a historic Creole cottage built in 1807, stands as a testament to resilience and heritage in the vibrant Faubourg Marigny neighborhood of New Orleans. This stunning Greek Revival structure, with its rustic facade, charming dogtrot, and lively hues of French Red and Indigo, captures the essence of a storied past.

Originally constructed by Constance Rixner Bouligny, a free woman of color, shortly after the Louisiana Purchase, this cottage became a cherished home for Tulane architecture professor Gene Cizek and his late partner Lloyd Sensat. In their restoration of the home in 1976, they unearthed archaeological treasures and a magnificent 200-year-old oak tree, revealing the cottage’s original French doors and brick porch from Bouligny’s era.

Cizek, captivated by the spirit of Faubourg Marigny upon his arrival in 1970, undertook the challenge of saving the home from demolition, purchasing it in poor condition. Through determination and creativity, they secured a federal tax credit and rented the house for five years before making it their home.

Sun Oak has evolved into a nurturing space—a home, a laboratory, and a classroom—where archaeology digs engage local institutions to deepen understanding of its rich history. By opening its doors to the public, the cottage inspires a love for New Orleans’ vibrant culture and architectural legacy, ensuring that its story continues to be shared and celebrated.

Host or Publisher Institute of Classical Architecture & Art - Louisiana Chapter